Sacramento's crackdown on pet owners who fail to license their dogs and cats seems to be working

"Although rabies cases in humans are rare, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wildlife in California can carry the rabies virus and infect domestic animals. Licensed pets also are easier to track and reunite with their owners, Knepp pointed out. The city's $20 licensing fee includes a free rabies vaccine and identifying microchip.
Knepp said the shelter is perpetually underfunded and overloaded, and the new licensing revenue will relieve some pressure. "I may be able to put this money toward veterinary help, officers and helping injured animals," she said. "There is a cost to saving these lives, but I want to do it.""
Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/entertainment/living/pets/article207005119.html